Seven Sisters: 7 Must-See Sights, Countless Memories to Make

The Seven Sisters of India, a term coined to represent the seven northeastern states of India, are a symphony of natural splendor and cultural diversity. Tucked away in the country’s remote corner, these states - Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura - boast a canvas of vibrant landscapes and a mosaic of tribal cultures.

Each state is a traveler’s paradise, offering a plethora of experiences from the snow-capped Himalayan peaks in Arunachal Pradesh to the lush greenery of Meghalaya’s rain-soaked hills. The region’s geographical seclusion has helped preserve its pristine beauty and ancient way of life, making it a treasure trove for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

The Seven Sisters are not just about picturesque settings; they are a cradle of rich traditions, with each state presenting its own set of festivals, dances, and crafts. From the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland to the Sangai Festival of Manipur, the region is a carnival of joyous celebrations throughout the year.

As you embark on a journey through the 7 sisters of india, prepare to be enchanted by the unique cultural tapestry and the untouched natural beauty that this region has to offer.

 

1. Assam: Kaziranga National Park

Biodiversity Description: Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse and vibrant ecosystem. Elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer all have significant breeding populations there, as do two-thirds of the world's Indian rhinoceroses. BirdLife International has designated the park as an Important Bird Area in support of the preservation of avifaunal species. Its landscape is a mix of tall elephant grass, marshland, and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests, criss-crossed by four major rivers, including the Brahmaputra. Additionally, the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park within its premises boasts more than 600 species of wild orchids collected from across Northeast India.

Best Times to Visit and Activities: The best time to visit Kaziranga National Park is from November to April when the weather is pleasant, and the park is open for visitors. This period avoids the monsoon season when the park is prone to flooding.

You can do a number of things with this time, like:

• Elephant Safaris: A unique way to explore the park and get close to the wildlife, especially the one-horned rhinoceros.

• Jeep Safaris: Available in different ranges of the park, offering a chance to witness the park’s biodiversity.

• Bird Watching: With a variety of avian species, it’s a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Remember to include in your blog that the park remains closed from May to October due to the monsoon season, which is essential information for potential visitors planning their trip.

 

2. Meghalaya: Living Root Bridges

Meghalaya's Living Root Bridges are natural wonders, handcrafted from the aerial roots of rubber trees by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. These bridges, like the famous Double-Decker Root Bridge in Cherrapunji, symbolize the community's eco-friendly practices and are accessed through scenic treks. Certainly! The Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya are a remarkable example of symbiotic human-nature interaction. Here’s an explanation for your blog:

• Cultural Significance: The Living Root Bridges, locally known as Jing Kieng Jri, are not just marvels of bio-engineering but also hold deep cultural significance for the Khasi and Jaintia tribes of Meghalaya. These bridges, made from the aerial roots of the Ficus elastica tree, represent the tribes’ intimate relationship with nature, their ingenuity, and their resilience. They are a testament to the tribe’s history, identity, and their sustainable practices that have stood the test of time, with some bridges believed to be over 500 years old. In March 2022, these bridges were included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting their importance as a cultural heritage.

• How to Reach and Experience: To experience these natural wonders, you can travel to the East Khasi Hills or West Jaintia Hills districts where they are located. The most famous one, the Double-Decker Root Bridge, is near Cherrapunji, which is about a two and a half hours drive from Shillong. The journey to these bridges often involves trekking through the beautiful yet rugged terrain of Meghalaya. For instance, the trek to the Double-Decker Root Bridge starts from the village of Tyrna and involves descending and ascending over 3,500 steps. It’s an adventure that rewards visitors with not only the sight of these living bridges but also the lush surroundings and 7 Sisters waterfall along the way.

 

3. Tripura: Neermahal Palace

Historical Background of Neermahal Palace: Neermahal, meaning ‘Water Palace’, is a stunning testament to the architectural grandeur of the past. It was built by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Debbarma in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake in 1930. This palace is a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles and is the largest water palace in India. It served as a summer residence for the royal family and also hosted cultural events.

Visiting Hours: The palace is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s advisable to check for any changes in visiting hours prior to planning your visit.

Nearby Attractions

• Tripura State Tribal Museum: A place to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Kalibari Temple: A revered religious site close to the palace.

• Veeramma Kali Temple: A spiritual site not far from Neermahal.

• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying traditional Tripura dishes at nearby eateries.

 

4. Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang Monastery

• Importance of Tawang in Buddhist Culture Tawang Monastery, known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, holds a significant place in Buddhist culture. It is the largest monastery in India and is recognized as the second largest in the world. Founded in the 17th century, it is a key center for the study of Buddhism and offers insights into the rich traditions of the Gelug school of Vajrayana Buddhism. The monastery is also historically important as the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, adding to its spiritual significance.

• Festivals and Ceremonies to Witness Tawang Monastery hosts several festivals and ceremonies that reflect the vibrant culture of the region. Notable among these is the Torgya Festival, an annual event held in January, which is exclusive to the monastery. It is a Monpa celebration characterized by traditional dances and rituals. Another significant festival is Losar, marking the Tibetan New Year, where people engage in prayers and festivities. The Tawang Festival in October showcases the region’s cultural heritage with dance, music, and processions.

These events are a profound expression of the region’s Buddhist faith and offer a unique experience for visitors and devotees alike.

 

5. Manipur: Loktak Lake and Keibul Lamjao National Park

• Loktak Lake is renowned for its unique ecosystem, characterized by the Phumdis, which are floating heterogeneous masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter at various stages of decomposition1. This floating biomass is essential to the lake’s ecology, providing a biological sink to key nutrients and governing the water and nutrient dynamics of the lake. The largest of these Phumdis forms the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world. The lake supports a rich biodiversity, including 81 species of birds, 25 species of reptiles, six species of amphibians, and 22 species of mammals. It’s also home to migratory fish from the Chindwin-Irrawaddy basin of Myanmar and the endangered Sangai deer, an endemic species found only in Manipur.

• Keibul Lamjao National Park is a critical conservation area for the endangered Sangai deer, also known as the Manipur brow-antlered deer. Conservation efforts in the park include the development of a plan to reintroduce the Sangai in areas with similar habitats to ensure their survival. The park’s unique floating meadows and the elevated strip of hard ground provide a vital habitat for this species.

These sites represent a delicate balance between human activity and ecological preservation, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to maintain this unique natural heritage.

 

6. Mizoram: Blue Mountain National Park

Flora and Fauna: The park is a rich habitat for a variety of species. It’s home to rare birds like Blyth’s tragopan, falcon, sunbirds, dark-rumped swift, and Mrs. Hume’s pheasant, which is the state bird of Mizoram. Here you can also find mammals such the Asiatic black bear, mountain goat, slow loris, tiger, leopard, leopard cat, serow, goral, and capped langur. The landscape is adorned with grasses, orchids, rhododendrons, and bamboo.

Trekking Routes and Viewpoints: For the adventurous, there are trekking trails that lead to the peak of the mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek through the park allows you to witness the picturesque beauty of hazy white clouds and scenic landscapes. The gentle slopes on the western side of the mountain are covered with virgin forests, and the peak has grassy glades ideal for picnics and outdoor camping.

Remember to respect the natural habitat and follow the guidelines set by the park authorities to ensure a safe and eco-friendly visit. Enjoy your exploration of this majestic part of Mizoram!

 

7. Nagaland: Hornbill Festival

Certainly! The Hornbill Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration held annually in Nagaland, India, from December 1st to 10th. It’s named after the hornbill, a revered bird in Naga culture, and is also known as the ‘Festival of Festivals’ due to its representation of all the ethnic groups of Nagaland.

Insight into the Festival’s Celebration of Naga Heritage: The festival takes place mainly at the Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima and is a showcase of Naga heritage, with traditional dances, music, and crafts on display. It’s an opportunity for all Naga tribes to come together and celebrate their rich cultural tapestry. Visitors can witness a mélange of cultural displays, including traditional arts like paintings, wood carvings, and sculptures. Highlights include the Naga Morungs exhibition, food stalls, herbal medicine stalls, and various performances that bring the spirit of Nagaland to life.

Tips for Travelers Attending the Festival

1. Transportation: The main venue, Kisama Heritage Village, is accessible only by road, about 12 km from Kohima. The closest airport is in Dimapur, approximately a 3-4 hour drive away.

2. Accommodation: Book hotels or guesthouses well in advance, as they fill up quickly due to the festival’s popularity.

3. Expect Crowds: Prepare for crowded conditions and widespread delays, especially in Kohima during the festival.

4. Tickets: To avoid long lines, buy your tickets in advance.

5. Clothing: Dress comfortably and be ready for walking. Carrying winter clothes is advisable as the festival takes place in December.

6. Connectivity: Be prepared for potential network connectivity issues.

7. Respect Local Customs: Always show respect for the tribal people and their traditions.

Enjoy your visit to the Hornbill Festival, and immerse yourself in the unique cultural experience it offers!

 

Conclusion

The "7 Sisters" of Northeast India offer a breathtaking tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. From the serene beauty of Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh to the vibrant festivals of Nagaland, each state presents a unique allure. The living root bridges of Meghalaya and the wildlife sanctuaries of Assam are testaments to the region's rich natural heritage, while the picturesque Seven Sisters Hills of Mizoram, the unexplored territories of Tripura, and the stunning orchids of Manipur invite you to delve deeper into their hidden wonders.

Let this be a call to action for all who yearn for adventure and cultural enrichment. The Seven Sisters are not just destinations; they are stories waiting to be lived. So pack your bags, set your sights on the horizon, and embark on a journey that promises to be as diverse and beautiful as the lands you're about to explore.